Alzheimer’s disease is a cognitive condition, but its symptoms can also place seniors at risk for physical harm. Families should be aware of the following dangers and implement preventive strategies to keep their senior loved ones safe. Medication Misuse As Alzheimer’s progresses, your loved one may find it more difficult to keep up with medications, but missing a dose or…
After experiencing strokes, seniors are more susceptible to isolation, both physically and socially, and it’s a proven fact that isolation contributes to early mortality, depression, and illness. There are things family members can do to keep a senior loved one happy, healthy, and social. When your loved one is ready, use these tips to help him or her stay as…
Sleep is a vital part of our everyday routines. While everyone needs sleep to live full and healthy lives, many seniors aren’t able to get the necessary amount of restful slumber on a nightly basis. Why is this the case? Along with the natural change in sleep rhythms that comes with aging, disruptive sleep schedules are common among aging adults,…
Approximately two million Americans 65 and older have asthma, a condition that can be difficult to manage at any age. From getting an accurate diagnosis—asthma is sometimes misdiagnosed as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in older people—to finding an effective way to manage symptoms, asthma presents many unique challenges for seniors. Diagnosing Asthma in Seniors Diagnosis includes a review of…
It’s important for family members and caregivers to find ways to keep their senior loved ones happy and healthy. When putting together next week’s shopping list for your loved one, don’t overlook peanut butter. While it’s high in good fat and calories, it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. Boosts Heart Health Eating a spoonful of peanut butter regularly can reduce the…
Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that affects movement. The disease is degenerative and slowly worsens over time. Caring for someone with Parkinson’s disease has unique challenges. Learn what to expect when caring for a senior loved one with Parkinson’s. 1. Remove Safety Concerns to Prevent Injuries Whether your loved one stays with you or is still living at…
When a hospital is unable to meet the needs of a senior with dementia, the older adult can potentially become vulnerable to many physical or mental complications. If your senior loved one has dementia and will be visiting the hospital for any reason, make sure the hospital is equipped to treat seniors living with this condition. Here are a few…
Sundowning behaviors seem to arrive just when you’re already tired out from a long day. Your senior loved one may experience sundowning due to fatigue or confusion about what’s happening in his or her environment. In some cases, you may never really know why your loved one acts the way he or she does. These strategies are effective for helping…
Combative behavior is typical in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, and family caregivers should prepare for physical and verbal outbursts. Developing strategies ahead of time could prevent situations from escalating. Below are some tips that can help your family handle aggression in a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s. 1. Check Comfort Levels If your parents’ needs aren’t met, they…
There’s no known cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, but there are some things seniors can do to slow its onset. 1. Consume Red, Yellow, & Orange Vegetables Eating red, yellow, and orange vegetables boosts health and may prevent or delay the symptoms of ALS. Bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, and other colorful vegetables are…
